Pacesetter 2018 Issue by Kettering College

2018 Issue

pacesetter THE MAGAZINE OF KETTERING COLLEGE

STUDENTS FIND A HOME AWAY FROM HOME also in this issue:

The Kettering College Legacy Kettering College: A Space to Celebrate and Share Culture

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Dear KC family, Whenever I start a written message or use the phrase “Kettering College family,” I always do so thoughtfully. Carefully. Even reverently.

Family, work, and fun have always blended together for me. Growing up, my brother and I had an important job in a family business — caring

for the chickens on our farm. The eggs we sold provided the major funding for the dirt bike we enjoyed as boys. I cherish those experiences and memories today, even the parts that were unpleasant at the time. So too, I cherish the Kettering College family. We are a college that manifests as family in so many ways. Eugene and Virginia Kettering, our namesake founding family, envisioned an educational institution over 50 years with a name to honor Eugene’s father, Charles F. Kettering. Our early faculty and staff pitched in and helped in myriad ways, all while ensuring that our students met the exacting standards of Kettering Hospital. Over time, our graduates have come to lead and to teach on the same campus where they were trained.

As I participated in commencement activities this past April, I was again reminded how important the support of family members can be for our students. I also saw, through the celebrations in our individual programs, the culmination of years of intense, intimate study and training of the camaraderie among students and their faculty mentors. Students and faculty together shared the palpable joy of amazing accomplishments and, through the effort they required, created bonds that describe family ties at their best. Like the lifelong impact of our blood relations, the effects of these Kettering College family ties run deep and stay with our graduates. When alumni share stories of their experiences at Kettering College, they almost always center on a faculty or a staff member. Often, it is a professor who is remembered as being caring and tough, and who helped that graduate become a successful professional and person — just like a caring family member would. Scripture describes our Creator and Redeemer — as well as ourselves — using family terminology. God calls out at the baptism of Jesus, “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased” (Matthew 3:17). The Lord’s Prayer directs us to pray to “Our Father in Heaven” (Matthew 6:9). When God wants us to understand our most intimate aspects of our relationship to Him most clearly, He chooses the language of family. This issue of Pacesetter celebrates the Kettering College family. In these pages and through these stories and images, you will encounter a family tree with matriarchs and newcomers, single extensions, or, in the case of the LaFave family, a vast network. Each person mentioned here, and each person connected to Kettering College, makes a special contribution to our family. I hope you enjoy encountering these family stories, and through them, I hope you will reacquaint yourself with the joy — the reverence — that I feel whenever I speak to or about this “dear KC family.” Blessings,

Nate Brandstater, Ph.D., President

2018 Issue

pacesetter THE MAGAZINE OF KETTERING COLLEGE

ON THE COVER:

Students Find a Home Away from Home

The Kettering College Legacy

Kettering College: A Space to Celebrate and Share Culture

The Academic Support Center is at the heart of the family culture at Kettering College. Led by Bev Ervin, these staff and faculty members provide support to students through life’s ups and downs.

This family tree wall celebrates the deep, wide root system of the Kettering College legacy.

One student’s leadership brings special events on campus celebrating Black History Month.

DE PA RTM E N TS Program Innovations | 09 Campus Notes | 12 Alumni News | 18 Pacesetter is published by the public relations and marketing department at Kettering College for the alumni, friends, faculty, staff and students of the school. Pacesetter Public Relations and Marketing Department Kettering College 3737 Southern Blvd. Kettering, OH 45429 kc.edu · pacesetter@kc.edu

21 | Partnerships 22 | New Faces 24 | Campus Candids EDITOR: Jessica J.W. Beans ASSISTANT EDITORS: Lauren Brooks and Breana Soliday Haughton CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Jessica J.W. Beans, Nate Brandstater, Lauren Brooks, Jasmyne Martin, Evelyn Ritzi, Breana Soliday Haughton, Natalie Younce, and Leigh Wilkins ALUMNI RELATIONS: Teresa Simmons PHOTOGRAPHY: Christine Bates, Jessica J.W. Beans, Justin Brandstater, Lauren Brooks, Julie Noeth, Breana Soliday Haughton, and Lee Ann Yahle. Medical Mission Trip: Belize: all photos and social media snapshots courtesy of Kettering College alumni, students, and staff. All social media snapshots featured in this issue used with permission.

Kettering College, born out of Adventist faith, is a fully accredited college that offers graduate and undergraduate degrees in health science education. Upholding Christ, the College educates students to make service a life calling and to view health as harmony with God in body, mind, and spirit. A division of Kettering Medical Center, Kettering College is located on the KMC campus in a suburb of Dayton, Ohio.

innovation. superior graduates. passion for service and health.

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students find a

HOME away from

HOME

The transition to college can be a challenge. For nursing student Stephanie Djuzeu Wandji, the initial adjustment was particularly difficult. The Cameroon native had only recently immigrated to the United States, and attending Kettering College meant being separated from her husband and young son, who stayed behind in Virginia.

“I was so lost at the beginning—everything around me was new,” says Djuzeu Wandji, who graduated from the College with her Bachelor of Science in Nursing on April 29. “I had so many questions, but I didn’t feel comfortable saying them out loud until I met Bev Ervin in the Academic Support Center. We really connected, and soon I felt like I could ask her anything.” Other caring faculty members took an interest in Djuzeu Wandji, and before long, Kettering College began to feel more like home. Bev Ervin, director of academic support services, and adjunct faculty member, Carol Warner hold Bubba, a stress-relieving teddy bear.

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“During my first year, I would stay after class to ask my professors questions about the material, and they always took time to learn about me,” she says. “The entire nursing faculty has been very welcoming and caring about my success, and I want to express my gratitude toward each of them, especially my academic advisor,

…I met Bev Ervin in the Academic Support Center. We really connected, and soon I felt like I could ask her anything. STEPHANIE DJUZEU WANDJI

Jean Stivers. She is always looking out for me and even had me over to her house for dinner during my first year. When I am feeling sad and homesick, I can just go into her office and be like, ‘I miss my son,’ and cry. I feel so fortunate to be part of the Kettering College family.”

A TRADITION OF SUPPORT

Faculty and staff got to know the students by name and created real friendships with them.

That sense of being part of a family is a common theme among Kettering College students, who come from different cultures, academic backgrounds, and phases of life to prepare for careers in medicine. Longtime faculty and staff members say it’s always been that way. Stella Freeman, who has worked at the College since 1982, remembers her early years here, when faculty members opened their homes to students on Friday evenings. She and her husband opened their own home to a nuclear medicine student who needed temporary housing back in the early 1990s. “Faculty and staff got to know the students by name and created real friendships with them,” Freeman says. “Times have changed, and many students now have families and are working while still getting their education. The school has adapted to meet the needs of today’s students, but the emphasis on creating a caring atmosphere is still there.” At the Academic Support Center, hundreds of students each year come for services that include peer tutoring, learning style assessments, and help with stress management and test-taking skills. The center opened in 2002 and is led by Bev Ervin, who remembers arriving on campus in 1982 as a new respiratory therapy student, feeling unsure about the future. “It had been a long time since my last math class, so I was nervous,” says Ervin, who has been the center’s director for 15 years. “But I found that my instructors were always available to help and guide me. I remember one faculty member, Scott McNeily, telling me how important it is to put aside your own needs and focus on the needs of others, and that’s exactly what the faculty did for me when I was a student here.”

STELLA FREEMAN

“LIKE MOMS TO ME” Ervin carries on the tradition in the Academic Support Center, where visitors are greeted warmly and often piled with baked goods. Those who seem particularly stressed might even chill out with the center’s “emotional support animal,” a giant, stuffed teddy bear. Ervin and her staff, which includes longtime faculty members Ed Pecce, Marcia Purtee, and Carol Warner, offer relaxation tips, encouragement, and prayers before exams, giving students a boost to face the day ahead. Students are visiting the Academic Support Center more than ever—in 2017, the center had 11,231 contacts, compared to 8,213 in 2016. Ray Martinez, who graduated in 2016, says he basically lived at the center during his years in the nursing program. “I had moved to Dayton from the Dominican Republic a year before enrolling at Kettering College, and my English was terrible,” says Martinez, who is now an emergency department nurse. “My first couple of semesters were so difficult, but I had a desire to succeed. When I reached out to the center for help, I saw a significant improvement in my grades. I always felt welcome and loved—Bev and Carol are like moms to me. I found all the resources and help I needed at the center.”

FEATURED: | TOP Stella Freeman, who offers support and assistance to students in the library and writing center, assists nursing student Madison Lawson. | MIDDLE From her office, Bev Ervin offers academic advice to students. | BOTTOM LEFT Bev Ervin, director of academic support services, talks with current students about the Academic Support Center.

» kettering college

SUPPORT THROUGH LIFE’S UPS AND DOWNS For some students, appreciation for their “second family” comes in the midst of an intense personal crisis. Recent graduate Jennifer Turner was in her final year of the radiology program when her husband was in a serious four-wheeler crash in November 2017. He sustained traumatic injuries, including 10 broken bones. After reconstructive surgery on his ankle, he couldn’t bear weight on either leg for about six weeks. “The next month or so was tough, but the faculty were by my side and helped me get through all of my classes and clinicals,” Turner says. “I don’t know how successful I would have been if I hadn’t received such great support through this tough experience.” Turner’s world was flipped upside down a second time in January 2018, when her dad was diagnosed with cancer. Once again, she relied on the support of faculty and friends. “Without a doubt, the radiology department is my second family,” Turner says. “They have helped me through school and life’s unpredictable road, and they have helped me become a better person inside and out.” FEATURED: | ABOVE Sonoka Fanwar, a nursing graduate, worked in the Writing Center for two years, helping students improve their writing skills.

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| BELOW Bev Ervin, director of academic support services, talks with prospective students about the Academic Support Center.

The Writing Center’s peer tutors provide instruction, encouragement, reassurance, and sometimes just a listening ear.

“I CAN DO THIS”

A MULTIFACETED APPROACH In the Writing Center, peer tutors work with students at every stage of the writing process, from creating an outline and crafting a thesis to polishing the final draft. Laura Edwards, an associate professor of English, helped start the Writing Center in 2012. She and the center’s four to seven peer tutors provide instruction, encouragement, reassurance, and sometimes just a listening ear. Sonoka Fanwar, who recently graduated from the nursing program, was a writing tutor for two years. She says the job involved people skills as much as it did expertise in the mechanics of writing. “If a tutor is judgmental and overly critical, the student isn’t going to improve as a writer,” she says. “Instead, I just focused on helping students understand the assignment and develop their own writing style.”

For those who are still mastering the English language, writing assignments can present special challenges. Recent nursing graduate Fifi Chujutalli, a native of Peru, remembers spending a great deal of time in the Writing Center her freshman year. “I didn’t know what to expect the first time I brought a paper in,” Chujutalli said. “I guess I was a little intimidated. I stayed with the same tutor for the whole year, and she always encouraged me and motivated me to do my best. After a while, I started to realize, ‘Oh, I can do this.’ ” It’s all part of the center’s strategy of improving the writer, not perfecting each piece of writing, Edwards says. “Students usually leave here with a smile on their face, not a paper covered in red ink,” she explains. “Over time, they feel more confident about expressing themselves in writing, and we love to see their progress.” /

The Writing Center: Where Writing is Just Part of the Story Everything about the Writing Center, from its comfortable chairs, colorful walls, and private rooms, is designed to ease students’ fears and help them feel at home. But don’t let the friendly atmosphere fool you—the staff has an ulterior motive, albeit benevolent. “Writing is a creative process, something that many students find incredibly difficult,” says Laura Edwards, the center’s director. “Some assignments require a lot of personal reflection, which can be scary for students. We have created an environment where they feel safe and are comfortable

LAURA EDWARDS

Ben Hotelling, director of career services, advises a student during a writing and resume workshop. kettering college

Students usually leave here with a smile on their face, not a paper covered in red ink.

asking for help.”

KETTERING COLLEGE’S FAMILY LEGACY Many people use the term “family” when describing Kettering College. An interactive family tree wall was a perfect way to celebrate that culture. The project recognizes many different expressions of the KC family, from graduates who have returned to campus to serve on the faculty or staff, to families with multiple generations of alumni, to new families that got their start on campus. By writing their name and a note, participants used strings to connect with other names — students, faculty, staff, or alumni — illustrating just how close-knit the College family is.

“ I never thought I’d be here, but I love it. Over the years, I’ve seen a lot of changes, but the closeness of the College— the family feel, how we’re all connected—that’s never changed. In some ways, that’s what the wall says, that we are all connected. ”

JILL EVANS

FEATURED: PHOTOS 1, 2 & 4

English professor Jill Evans; Taryn Talbott, advanced imaging professor and clinical coordinator; and Larry Beneke, senior advisor for facilities; create their connections on the wall. Many faculty and staff were surprised to see how many generations of family members were linked to faculty or staff members.

PHOTO 3

Many Kettering College faculty and staff members have multiple generations of families who have either taught or attended like Teresa Simmons, director of alumni relations; Ryan LaFave ’17 (human biology); and Larry Beneke, senior advisor for facilities. LaFave’s family had seven family connections who graduated from nursing, respiratory care, human biology, and the physician assistant master’s program. Simmons had nine family connections who graduated with various degrees and four connections to other faculty and staff members who either taught her or were mentors. Beneke had five family connections who graduated from advanced imaging and the physician assistant program. Beneke taught in the radiology program and was mentored by the former director of radiologic sciences and imaging, Frank Brewster.

PHOTO 5

Millie Roach, retired professor of physician assistant studies, posts her connections on the family tree wall. 6

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“ As an alumna, one of the things I loved about attending Kettering College was that it was a small, Christian institution. Past, present and future students should know the faculty embrace you as family and encourage you to move on to the next area of advancement. ”

TARYN TALBOTT 3

Many of the college’s faculty and staff members have multiple generations of families who have taught or attended Kettering College. kettering college

BY JASMYNE MARTIN, ’18

KETTERING COLLEGE: A SPACE TO CELEBRATE AND SHARE CULTURE

By participating in Black History Month, current and future minority students can feel accepted, appreciated, and included, knowing Kettering College is a space to celebrate and share their culture.

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February is Black History Month, a time of intentional recognition of and education about black contributors in the United States. As the student leader of Black History Month, I helped plan, organize, and execute the Black History Month events at Kettering College. With the aid of many dedicated faculty and staff, we hosted a film festival featuring The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks; Marshall; and Selma. A guided discussion followed each film. The discussions around the films provided clarity, evoked tears, and elicited questions, which provided rich conversation and brought new perspective to participants. The highlight of the month was hosting the Dayton Contemporary Dance Company (DCDC), which provided a refreshing take on storytelling. DCDC used contemporary dance to express the woes of black America, re-enacting historical events and encouraging the audience to practice love and unity. Those in attendance enjoyed traditional Black/African-American family cookout food selections, intended to cultivate community and fellowship. For some, Black History Month can be a time of sorrow, as many reflect on the painful past of black America. However, it is important that the healthcare community become familiar with the triumphs and contributions of black people in America, because representation is vital. One does not need to be black to appreciate or participate in Black History Month celebrations. The goal of celebrating Black History Month is to expand diversity, educate about experiences, and celebrate the lives and accomplishments of black America. By participating in Black History Month, current and future minority students can feel accepted, appreciated, and included, knowing Kettering College is a space to celebrate and share their culture. Celebrating Black History Month creates unity by encouraging students to learn and rejoice in one another’s differences. /

FEATURED: CLOCKWISE FROM THE TOP: Nursing graduate Jasmyne Martin, nursing student Amanda Switzer, and occupational therapy doctoral student Megan Fesler at the Martin Luther King Jr. March. Members of the Dayton Contemporary Dance Company perform as part of the Black History Month events on February 17 at Kettering College. Administrators from Kettering College—from left, Josefer Montes, former Dean for Undergraduate Academic Affairs; Ruth Abbott, Dean for Academic Affairs; and Victor Brown, former Dean of Student Life and Enrollment Management—at the annual Martin Luther King Jr. March in downtown Dayton.

KETTERING COLLEGE ENROLLMENT NUMBERS STUDENTS ENROLLED / TERM

F=FALL TERM; W=WINTER TERM; S=SUMMER TERM

FEATURED: TOP | From left, Patrick Jean-Jacques ‘17, advanced imaging graduate; Winelia Flores-Ortiz, respiratory care student; and Zoe Ting ‘18, nursing graduate; they were student ambassadors during Explore Kettering, giving prospective students an inside look at Kettering College. 1 | Marc Shirimpumu ‘18, nursing graduate stands with Rachel Aragon, a news anchor for Dayton’s Fox 45 during live news coverage of Kettering College. 2 | Kettering College has seen an increase in enrollment every semester since fall 2016. 3 | Grace Brodberger, an occupational therapy student gives a tour during the April Explore Kettering. 4 | Katrina Hill, director of admissions, speaks with a prospective student at the April Explore Kettering.

kettering college

“Explore Kettering is a unique way for prospective students to experience Kettering College,” said Adam Brown, Dean of Student Success. “From our 2017 spring event, we had 70 percent enroll as a student for the following fall semester.” If prospective students can’t attend the Explore Kettering event, the College also offers campus tours on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

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Kettering College continues to find ways to improve services for students, one of which was re-examining their scholarships. The College offers scholarships and discounts to current Kettering College students; Kettering Health Network (KHN) employees who wish to continue their education; and dependents of Kettering Health Network employees. Marc Shirimpumu, a nursing graduate from Kettering College and a Kettering Health Network employee, received a discount through the tuition assistance program. “This program helped me with my finances by allowing me to take fewer loans out of the bank,” Shirimpumu said. “It gave me the sense Kettering College really cared about my academic success.” Recently, the College announced its plans to add a Doctor of Physical Therapy program. A program director has been hired, and program development continues. Tentative plans are to accept applications in 2019. Other enrollment initiatives include improving the communication process with prospective students, revamping the campus visit experience, creating a system to guide the prospective students through the enrollment process, and redesigning the website. /

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Kettering College has seen an increase in enrollment every semester since fall 2016. The College continues to see growth from new enrollment strategies and improved academic programs. One initiative credited with aiding in this enrollment increase is Explore Kettering, an event first offered in the fall of 2016. The admissions department has hosted an Explore Kettering event each semester since then to connect with prospective students. This event includes a guided tour of campus, time to sit down and talk with faculty in the department the prospective student is interested in, and the opportunity to speak with admissions and financial aid counselors.

PROGRAM INNOVATIONS

KETTERING COLLEGE SEES GROWTH WITH NEW AND IMPROVED ENROLLMENT AND ACADEMIC STRATEGIES

PROGRAM INNOVATIONS

COLLEGE INTRODUCES INNOVATIVE SHIFT IN ONLINE LEARNING

PART TIME STUDENT

FULL TIME STUDENT

Beginning fall of 2018, Kettering College will offer online courses on a shortened schedule to better fit the needs of students pursuing the Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences (BSHS). Rather than taking multiple semester-long courses at once, students will have fewer classes in accelerated sessions that can be completed in seven or eightweek increments. “The majority of the students enrolled in the BSHS program are working full-time in a healthcare setting in addition to completing their degree,” said Paula Reams, chair of health sciences. “The new shift in the way our online courses are delivered will allow our students to better navigate the educational system and empower them to pursue their career goals with fewer obstacles.” Kettering College’s BSHS program is an online completion program for healthcare professionals with an allied health associate degree or its equivalent. Graduates pursue careers in healthcare management; acute care; and community

primary care settings. Students may choose a full-time or parttime pace of study and focus on areas including management, education, sonography, advanced imaging, and respiratory care. “With the accelerated sessions, full-time students will be able to complete the entire program in just four semesters, including general education courses,” Reams said. “Part-time students can earn their bachelor’s degree in eight semesters.” The condensed format reflects an emerging trend in online education. The accelerated online sessions will be offered year-round, giving students the advantage of a faster pace to degree completion along with higher flexibility to accommodate their work schedules. “Our hope is that it makes it more efficient and easier for students to complete their bachelor’s degree and expand their career opportunities,” Reams said. See kc.edu/bshs for more information. /

CONDENSED FORMAT WITH ONLINE COURSES S1 S2 S3 S4 S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6 S7 S8 ALLOWS STUDENTS PURSUING BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN HEALTH SCIENCES (BSHS) AN ACCELERATED OPTION TO EARN DEGREE S=SEMESTER

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PASSION & PURPOSE: PROGRAM OFFERS INTEGRATED SERVICE LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES One way Kettering College is actively demonstrating its dedication to service is by developing service learning opportunities for all students — including those pursuing degrees online. Recently, students enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences (BSHS) program hosted a community health fair as part of the online course Interdisciplinary Team Practice in Community-Based Care. The health fair, held at the YWCA in downtown Dayton, was a coordinated effort between students and the YWCA to educate women affected by domestic violence on pertinent health topics such as posture, emergency preparedness, childhood obesity, and smoking cessation. The health fair gave online BSHS students the opportunity to integrate service and learning in a meaningful, hands-on service project. Online students worked as a group to research and plan their topics. Local students came together to present their research, while students from other areas helped to prepare a grant proposal. “Students researched the Dayton population and what health screenings are needed here and designed the pamphlets and educational materials used for the

health fair as teams,” said Debra Stump, adjunct faculty member in Kettering College’s Health Sciences department. “Because we’re a completely online course, we actually have three students that live out of state. These students took on leadership roles in the course, including organizing the grant proposal.” The students said the project was an opportunity to apply their learning. “This class has taught me a lot, being that we haven’t had face-to-face interaction until the health fair,” said Sidney Clark, who is specializing in health management. “I’ve learned that you can still be a team and work together, even online.” The BSHS program also focuses on interprofessional collaboration, allowing students to develop a more holistic understanding of health and ultimately provide better patient care. “We have students specializing in radiology, respiratory therapy, radiation technology, physical therapy, dietary technicians, dental hygiene, and more,” Stump said. “Everything you can imagine in health care was represented at the recent health fair, and students were able to select projects they were interested in based on their specialties.” / 4

FEATURED: 1 | Shelby Dunn, a respiratory care therapist and a student in the online BSHS program, discusses her project with classmates before the health fair begins. 2 | Adjunct faculty member Debra Stump, left, assists online BSHS students and radiology technicians, Carly Strayer, and Tiffany Elieas. 3 | Online BSHS student Brooke Fasold, left, talks to classmates about her project for the health fair. 4 | BSHS students Brittany Hasty, a physical therapy assistant, and Ed Moutoux run the health booth on posture.

Kettering College recently hosted a hiring event with Kettering Health Network to connect senior nursing students with interview and job placement opportunities. The College’s first Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) interview day shifted the format from past career fairs to allow hiring managers to offer students jobs on the spot. “While past career fairs have centered on networking, this new format allowed us to set up interview rooms across the gym where hiring managers could interview students and offer students jobs immediately,” said Ben Hotelling, director of career services at Kettering College. “Before the event, students could select the hospitals and departments they were interested in, and we guaranteed them an interview with their first or second option.” Students also had opportunities to prepare for the event with Hotelling, whose department assists with resume writing and editing, interview training, career exploration, and professional training. The BSN interview day reflects Kettering College’s partnership with the Kettering Health Network. More than 40 senior nursing students scheduled interviews for the day, and of the students who attended, 17 received job offers, and 21 were invited back for second interviews, Hotelling said. Seven students accepted full-time positions at the event. The event provided a convenient way for hiring managers to reach qualified applicants and meet the growing needs of their healthcare organizations, said Tiffany Thompson ’11, clinical nurse manager of critical care at Grandview Medical Center and president of the Kettering College Alumni Association.

“I am passionate about keeping Kettering College graduates in Kettering Health Network,” Thompson said. “The Kettering Health Network values, mission and culture are being instilled in them throughout their time at the College. What an awesome opportunity to mold and grow amazing caregivers who can step right into our network to care for our vulnerable patients.” Zachary Butts, clinical health manager at Sycamore Medical Center, said the event helps bridge the gap between the College and Kettering Health Network. “This is an excellent opportunity for hiring managers to get new top talent while also taking away the anxiety for the student of finding a position after graduation,” Butts said. For Kettering College students, it was a direct link to career opportunities that match their interests and passions. “Kettering College has been a great support to me,” said Rebecca Werstler, a recent nursing graduate. “Coming out of the military and being a veteran, you have so much experience to fit into a short resume. It’s nice to know that I’m going to land in a place that will support me and my beliefs and will help me flourish as a nurse with the residency program while going into a community that I already feel a part of.” In addition to connecting graduating students with fulltime opportunities within the Kettering Health Network, Kettering College strongly believes in students gaining healthcare experience and holding a healthcare job while in school. The College offers a 30 percent tuition discount to all undergraduate students working part-time in the Kettering Health Network. Those already employed within

PROGRAM INNOVATIONS

INTERVIEW DAY CONNECTS BSN STUDENTS WITH KETTERING HEALTH NETWORK HIRING MANAGERS Kettering Health Network and wishing to continue their education may also be eligible for tuition assistance; Kettering Health Network offers a $7,000-per-year ($21,000 degree maximum) educational assistance program to all benefit eligible employees who choose Kettering College for their education. Additional information can be found on kc.edu/khn.

FEATURED: 1 | Katelynn Mantia, recent nursing graduate, begins the interview process by creating an applicant profile. 2 | Douglas Houghton, director of talent development at Kettering Health Network, speaks with Lucas Chrisman, recent nursing graduate, before his interview.

kettering college

CAMPUS NOTES

KETTERING COLLEGE HONORS 50th COMMENCEMENT AT NEW LOCATION On Sunday, April 29, Kettering College conferred degrees and certificates to 227 students at its 50th commencement ceremony. This year, Jonathan Duffy, president of Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA), gave the keynote address. For the first time, the graduation ceremony was held at the Benjamin and Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center in downtown Dayton.

The commencement included the College’s first class of graduates from the Occupational Therapy Doctoral program, with 20 students receiving this degree. President Nate Brandstater also presented 16 Associate of Science degrees and 137 bachelor’s degrees, including 83 Bachelor of Science in Nursing degrees; 54 students earned the Master of Physician 1 Assistant Studies. /

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FEATURED:

1 | From left, occupational therapy graduates Mercedes Brookman and Adrian Garnett. 2 | Family and friends filled the Benjamin and Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center for the 50th commencement ceremony. 3 | Kettering College’s 50th commencement ceremony. 4 | Graduates, family, and friends gather in the Schuster Center’s Wintergarden following the commencement ceremony. 5 | Josefer Montes, former Dean for Undergraduate Academic Affairs, announces Stephanie Djuzeu Wandji (nursing) as the 6 recipient of the George B. Nelson Award, presented to an undergraduate who exemplifies the mission of Kettering College by making service a life calling and viewing health as harmony with God in body, mind, and spirit. 6 | Greg Parker, occupational therapy graduate, with faculty members Jessica Carpenter (left) and Terrance Anderson. Parker and his classmates were the first to graduate from Kettering College’s Occupational Therapy Doctorate program. 7 | Jonathan Duffy, president of ADRA, gives the keynote address. 8 | A Kettering College nursing graduate celebrates the occasion with decorative gratitude. 9 | Ruth Abbott, Dean for Academic Affairs, announces Krista Basso (physician assistant) as the winner of the Margaret L. Rodenburg Award, which recognizes a master’s-level student for scholarship and professional growth. 5

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CAMPUS NOTES

MEDICAL MISSION TRIP: During Spring Break, 35 people from the Kettering College community —10 clinic staff, 24 students, and the campus chaplain— visited Belize on a mission trip. The group saw approximately 800 patients during this full week of clinics.

STEVE

ZOE “Being able to serve God in Belize with my girls will forever hold a special place in my heart.” » Zoe Ting, 2018 nursing graduate

KARIE “To travel is to live, but being able to travel and provide care to enrich the lives of others is to me, the most rewarding type of travel. Thirty-five strangers— PA students, OT students, nursing and pre-nursing students, ultrasound/sonography students, radiology students, and healthcare providers—endured scorching heat, suffocating humidity, giant spiders, bugs and mosquitos, dehydration, early hours, long nights, lack of sleep, cramped quarters, cold showers, long bus rides, limited space and resources. Yet not one complaint was heard. One could instead find our group banding together and stepping up to the challenge to provide the best care to hundreds of patients over five clinic days. Each of us pushed beyond our limits and comfort zones, trying new things, soaking up new languages, tasting new foods, building relationships, learning, and growing. God is good. What an un-Belize-able experience.” » Karie McGill, 2015 PA graduate

“A full week of clinic, and our rock-star team has served huge crowds of people. Our objectives—to provide quality health care to the locals, as well as pour ourselves into the spiritual development of our students—have been so fulfilling to watch play out before us. What an incredible experience to be a part of.” » Steve Carlson, Kettering College chaplain

NOLIE “I’m so thankful I had the opportunity to go to Belize. It was amazing to work with such a special group of people to serve Christ and the people of Belize using the medical skills we’ve gained during school. I’m so blessed by the people I met and by this entire experience.” » Nolie Taff, sonography student. “Needless to say — this trip was an amazing experience with an even more amazing group to share it with.” » Sonoka Fanwar, 2018 nursing graduate

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CAMPUS NOTES

DANIELLE “As we come up on our last night here in Belize, I need to show some appreciation for this amazing group of people. We worked our butts off providing some much-needed medical care to hundreds of people this week. It was incredible to watch a group of strangers come together for a common mission. While the photos show us having a ton of fun over these last couple of vacation days, this trip was so much more than that. So, so blessed and proud of my Belize mission family.” » Danielle Aka, 2017 nursing graduate

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clinical staff students

the campus chaplain

FIFI “Had the amazing opportunity to serve people in Belize for a week with this awesome team. Went from being a nurse to a pharmacist, an optometrist, a dental assistant, and most importantly, a translator. I didn’t want to leave but so, so happy for all the memories made.” » Fifi Chujutalli, 2018 nursing graduate

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patients seen

SONOKA

kettering college

KETTERING COLLEGE HOSTS 10TH ANNUAL SPRING INTO HEALTH 5K

CAMPUS NOTES

On April 8, Kettering College hosted the 10th annual Spring into Health 5K. More than 275 runners and walkers participated, despite the brisk weather. The 5K event raised around $6,200 for Good Neighbor House, a nonprofit organization providing food pantry services, clothing, and household items to individuals and families in the Dayton region.

helping hands

Physician assistant students have been the primary organizers of the event since its beginning, encouraging healthy living through the 5K and the community wellness fair; 25 percent of the event’s proceeds go to Physician Assistant Student Professional Development Fund. “We’re getting the word out about how to live a healthy lifestyle, how to become active, and support the community,” said Allesha Howard, PA student and class president. “We had about 20 sponsors that came.” Students, parents, children, and community members participated in the wellness fair before the 5K. Bubbles, balloon animals, games, prizes, and snacks entertained children before their own fun run. Victor Brown, former Dean of Student Life and Enrollment Management, was the event’s grand marshal. David Nelson, director of construction management at Kettering Health Network, won the race with a time of 16:30. After the race, awards were given to those who placed first, second, and third in their age divisions. /

FEATURED: TOP LEFT TO RIGHT: Children participate in their own fun run right before the 5K run/walk. Victor Brown, grand marshal and former Dean of Student Life and Enrollment Management.

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KETTERING COLLEGE STUDENTS & STAFF MAKE BLANKETS AND HATS FOR THE HOMELESS With temperatures reaching below freezing and sometimes below zero during the winter, Kettering College students and staff worked together to make fleece blankets and stocking caps for the homeless living in Dayton. Over the past several years, the nursing department at Kettering College has partnered with the Kettering Adventist Church to make blankets and hats for Good Neighbor House, a local nonprofit organization that assists individuals and families in Dayton. “This was an initiative from the nursing department we wanted to support,” said Steve Carlson, chaplain at Kettering College. Carlson oversees the Student LIFE program, which provides opportunities for students to participate in local, regional, and international service projects. The academic service projects help students focus on others and create ways for faculty and staff to connect with students, Carlson said. “Sitting at a table making blankets was a fun and unique way to connect with students in a manner I wouldn’t have normally,” Carlson said. “We had different conversations than the ones I usually have by passing them in the hallway.” One of those students was Kuda Gwasira, who was part of a group that completed a record 15 blankets in one night. “I’m studying to become a nurse, and one of the aspects is to be there for your patients,” Gwasira said. “I’m learning to apply that aspect of being there for others to my life through service projects.” /

“Sitting at a table making blankets was a fun and unique way to connect with students in a manner I wouldn’t have normally...”

» STEVE CARLSON FEATURED: TOP LEFT TO RIGHT: Joan Ulloth, associate director of the Division of Nursing, oversees Jessica Blaza, a Loma Linda University medical student, and Jessica Purvis, a University of Dayton engineering student and Kettering Adventist Church member, sewing fleece hats. Kettering College students work with Kettering College chaplain Steve Carlson, middle, to make blankets for the homeless during a winter service project.

CAMPUS NOTES

NEW GROUP WORKING TO BREAK THE STIGMA OF MENTAL ILLNESS BY NATALIE YOUNCE, ’18 “Half of all chronic mental illness begins by age 14; threequarters by age 24. Despite effective treatment, there are long delays — sometimes decades — between the first appearance of symptoms and when people get help.” My name is Natalie, and I am the founder and president of the Kettering College branch of NAMI on Campus, the college division of the National Alliance on Mental Illness. NAMI’s mission is to end the stigma of mental illness. I struggle with anxiety, depression, and disordered eating. I have lost a friend to depression and almost lost a couple of others. During my freshman year of college, I really struggled with finding support and almost lost myself. I had isolated myself and would only come out of my room for class. I really wanted to reach out to someone—anyone. But I couldn’t find anyone I felt like I could open up to. I first learned about NAMI on Campus when researching for a project in my psychology class. A friend and I later teamed up to contact the leaders of NAMI on Campus and became certified support group facilitators for our branch. We loved the concept of having peer support. Being previously intimidated by the idea of reaching out to a professor or psychologist, I wanted others with this same intimidation to have someone to talk to in times of need, someone who had been in that same dark place and found her way out. So far, we have created a platform for people to communicate their struggles and needs with us. We have provided our personal information for others to communicate with us, and we’ve provided FEATURED: students with education on mental TOP RIGHT: NAMI on illness and resources in our comCampus members host a booth at the Spring into munity. I wanted to create a program Health 5K in April. From designed by people who know what left: Fifi Chujutalli, nursing it feels like to struggle and who know graduate and coordinator; Sadi Creech, nursing student how to help. and future vice president; Autumn Carlson, nursing student; Liessa Johnson, nursing student and secretary; Natalie Younce, nursing graduate, founder, and president; and Elizabeth Matese, group photographer and volunteer.

BOTTOM RIGHT: The original group from summer of 2017 when NAMI on Campus was first established, from left: Fifi Chujutalli, nursing graduate and coordinator; Natalie Younce, nursing graduate, founder, and vice president; Maggie Smith, nursing graduate and president; Zoe Ting, nursing graduate and treasurer; Carlie Finley, nursing student and coordinator; and Bradley Stewart, nursing student and secretary.

and resources at events such as orientation, Mental Health Awareness Week, the health fair, and the College’s Spring into Health 5K. From a recent survey at the College, it was found that 48 percent of 75 respondents struggle with some sort of mental illness such as anxiety or depression. With events such as coffee and conversation, yoga classes in the gym, and puppies for finals, NAMI on Campus is working to build awareness and provide platforms for students to receive support. By providing education, advocacy, and support, we hope to positively influence the lives of those around us. No one should have to suffer in silence. No one should feel as though they are alone or misunderstood. No one should feel like I did. That is why I am proud to be the president of our NAMI on Campus group. We strive each day to make a difference in the lives of individuals in our campus community and to end the stigma surrounding mental illness. Joining NAMI on Campus has been one of the most life-changing things I have done in college. It has given me solidification in my career decision, and it has provided me with close friendships. Most of all, it has put me in a position where I have the ability to make an impact on others’ lives. You can reach out to us on Facebook: NAMI on Campus at Kettering College. /

Stigma is when someone—or even you yourself—views a person in a negative way just because they have a mental health condition. Some people describe stigma as a feeling of shame or judgment. Stigma can even come from an internal place— confusing feeling bad with being bad. Navigating life with a mental health condition can be tough, and the isolation, blame, and secrecy encouraged by stigma can create challenges to reaching out, getting needed support, and living well. To provide support and end the stigma, we have provided education kettering college

KETTERING COLLEGE’S 50TH ANNIVERSARY:

A YEAR OF CELEBRATION

ALUMNI NEWS

Kettering College kicked off its 50th anniversary in the fall of 2017 with homecoming events including a tea celebration, a day of ice cream and activities at Young’s Dairy, an anniversary banquet, the Holiday at Home Parade, a church service and potluck, and time with classmates. Other events celebrating 50 years included the unveiling of a portrait of Anna May Vaughan; an alumni cruise; and the respiratory care rededication and reunion event. “It was such a great experience holding multiple events for alumni, family, and friends to come together and celebrate our 50th anniversary,” said Teresa Simmons, director of alumni relations.

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ALUMNI NEWS

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FEATURED: 10

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1 | Alumni brought their kids to the Young’s Dairy event since there were several activities for children. 2 | Moovers & Shakers, a barrel train, entertains children at the Young’s Dairy event. 3 | Peter Bath, president of Kettering College from 1991 to 2000, now vice president for mission and ministry at Kettering Health Network, and Carol Warner of academic support re-create their portrait from Bath’s tenure at the College. 4 | Jill Evans, professor of English, at the anniversary banquet. 5 | In honor of the 50th anniversary, faculty and staff unveiled a portrait of longtime nursing faculty member Anna May Vaughan. 6 | Teresa Simmons, director of alumni relations, at the banquet. 7 | Lisa Keller Villegas (ultrasound ’83), left, and Frank Brewster, retired director of the department of radiologic sciences and imaging, volunteer at the check-in table at Young’s Jersey Dairy. 8 | Alumni and family come together for the alumni cruise. Back, from left: Karen Vietz, Terrance Anderson, Ken Romans, Bill Rodenburg; Jaedon Vanderiet, and Stella Freeman. Front: Amy Ortiz-Moretta and Margaret Rodenburg. 9 | A perfect toast for the 50th: grilled cheese sandwiches from the popular Dayton food truck C’est Cheese. 10 | Alumna Marge Brenneke at the anniversary banquet. 11 | Teresa Simmons, director of alumni relations, hosts an alumni board dinner meeting. 12 | Tiffany Thompson ’11, clinical nurse manager of critical care at Grandview Medical Center and president of the Kettering College Alumni Association, addresses the 50th anniversary banquet. 13 | From left, Diane Perkins Wish (nursing ’72), Rita Roberts (nursing ’72), and Nancy Robbins (nursing ’72) at the 50th anniversary banquet. 14 | Margaret Rodenburg at the alumni tea. 15 | Alumni assemble for the 58th Kettering Holiday at Home parade Sept. 4; they designed their float to fit the festival’s theme: This Ain’t Our First Rodeo: Saddle Up. 16 | Eugene Cowling, right, and his wife, Mabel Cowling, at the alumni tea; they were the first registrar and bookstore manager of Kettering College. / kettering college

ALUMNI NEWS

ALUMNI NIGHT AT THE DAYTON DRAGONS GAME On May 8, the Class of 2018 celebrated its graduation alongside Kettering College faculty, staff, and other alumni at the College’s annual Dayton Dragons alumni game. The George B. Nelson Award winner, Stephanie Djuzeu Wandji (nursing) threw out the first pitch. “It was really exciting to throw out the first pitch,” Wandji said. “I want to thank the Dayton Dragons and Kettering College for giving me this opportunity.” Between innings, the alumni section was chosen to participate in a volleyball competition against the adjacent section.

FEATURED: CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: As the George B. Nelson Award winner, Stephanie Djuzeu Wandji ’18 (nursing) throws the first pitch. Karie McGill ’15 (physician assistant) and Kristen Engen, Kettering Health Network employee. Stephanie Djuzeu Wandji ’18 (nursing) with Dayton Dragons mascot Heater and a player. Beach volleyball. Kristen Fleissner McNutt ‘14 (nursing) and her husband, Bryan.

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Ed Moutoux ‘18 (healthcare management) and Brooke Hartman, nursing student.

Adam Brown, Dean of Student Success, and his son visit with friends and family.

PARTNERSHIPS

GIVING DAY Kettering College’s first KC Giving Day was held on Nov. 2, 2017. Alumni and friends of the College contributed more than $59,000 in support of students. As part of Kettering College’s 50th anniversary celebration, the inaugural KC Giving Day invited alumni and friends to give to several funds: the Kettering College Fund, the Kettering College General Scholarship Fund, and the Kettering College Student Assistant Fund, all of which support current students. Alumni delivered: the amount raised was more than double the goal of $25,000.

On Kettering College’s second annual KC Giving Day, September 13, you can join alumni from across the country in contributing to scholarships. By giving back, you’re helping continue Kettering College’s tradition of excellence, service, and innovation.

“ JUST AS RIPPLES SPREAD

“It gets harder to balance family, work, friends, school, and finances,” said Andrew Peterson, who received a scholarship while attending Kettering College. “I’m thankful for donors who care that I am able to achieve my goals and dreams.”

FROM A SINGLE PEBBLE

Throughout the day, students stopped in the lobby for pastries and popcorn and to write thank you notes to donors. They also had their photos taken in a KC Giving Day photo booth. Contributions came from alumni of all departments, with many donors expressing thanks to Kettering College for its longtime commitment to educational excellence, healthcare innovations, and passion for service.

Learn how you can make a difference today, by visiting kc.edu/givingday.

DROPPED INTO A POND, GIFTS TO KETTERING COLLEGE HAVE FARREACHING EFFECTS FOR STUDENTS. ”

To learn more about or giving to the Student Assistance Fund or special scholarships, please contact Amber Rose, director of annual giving and special events, at amber.rose@ ketteringhealth.org kettering college

PICTURED ABOVE: Alumni, faculty, staff, and friends contributed more than $59,000 in the first KC Giving Day in November 2017. The next KC Giving Day is Sept. 13.

Each year, more than 90 Kettering College students receive financial support through scholarships made possible by the generosity of alumni, staff, faculty, and friends.

NEW FACES

JESSICA ALLEN, office assistant, division of nursing Jessica Allen says she enjoys helping people in an office setting. She previously worked as an administrative clerk in the housing inspection department for the city of Dayton. Allen says she chose to work at Kettering College for a change of pace and a new environment. She enjoys learning how to play guitar, writing, and spending time with family and friends.

JESSICA ALLEN

JONATHAN BLACKBURN

TANYA COMBS

SCOTT GARDNER, M.D.

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JONATHAN BLACKBURN, admissions counselor, enrollment services Jonathan Blackburn came to Kettering College because he believes in the mission of the school and the quality of his co-workers. The transition to college for the first time or returning to college can be worrisome, Blackburn says. He enjoys working in a field where he can help take those worries away and help prospective students start their academic career. Blackburn says he will always choose to be outdoors, if possible. He enjoys sports, hiking, reading, and spending time with his family, especially his newborn niece, Ashley. TANYA COMBS, office assistant, physician assistant studies Tanya Combs came to Kettering College after a career as a health unit coordinator at Kettering Medical Center, Grandview Medical Center, and Sycamore Medical Center. She says she chose to work at Kettering College for its Christian environment and its mission-focused approach to health care. In her free time, Combs enjoys gardening, sewing, going on walks, and spending time with her family. Combs and her husband, Todd, have five children — Amanda, Nicholas, Daniel, Benjamin, and Douglas. SCOTT GARDNER, M.D., medical director and professor, physician assistant studies Scott Gardner says his love for surgery and teaching brought him to Kettering College. “I was very impressed with the program and with the students the College sent me,” he says. “I also did my surgical training at Kettering, so I knew that anything Kettering Health Network was involved in, including the College, would be first class.” A medical doctor, he previously was the medical director of Waterloo Hospital in Sierra Leone. He also has been a preceptor for the Physician Assistant Studies program for the past several years. Gardner completed his undergraduate studies at Andrews University, his medical studies at Loma Linda University, and his surgical residency at Kettering Medical Center. In his free time, he enjoys hiking. His wife, Rebecca, is a registered nurse. The Gardners have two grown children, Jonathan and Lindsay. Jonathan is an archaeologist starting his doctorate; Lindsay is a high school science teacher in Taiwan.

VANESSA ROGERS

ANGIE SAHLBOM

“...each person connected to Kettering College, makes a special contribution to our family.” > Nate Brandstater

ANGIE SAHLBOM, clinical instructor, radiologic sciences and imaging (advanced imaging) Angie Sahlbom, a Kettering College alumna, says she’s excited to start this new journey, helping and interacting with students. She previously worked in medical imaging for 20 years. She chose to work at Kettering College because she wants to help people and teach in the clinical setting. Sahlbom enjoys spending time with her husband and two children, Josh and Maggie. As a family, they love to camp, be outdoors, and hike together. She also enjoys wheel pottery.

NOTEWORTHY MOVES

VANESSA ROGERS, assistant professor, physician assistant studies Vanessa Rogers started her career with a bachelor’s in nursing, then joined the first cohort of students in Kettering College’s Master of Physician Assistant Studies program, graduating in 2007. Two years ago, she became an adjunct faculty member. Rogers says she feels honored to teach where her career began as a physician assistant. She enjoys reading and spending time with her husband, Jared, and three children, Ayden, Cameron, and Ava.

SOCIAL MEDIA SNAPSHOTS

JOSIE BURNS is now the associate registrar. She previously was the clinical coordinator for the Division of Nursing. MARY HARDEN is now the program clinical coordinator for the Division of Nursing. MILLIE ROACH, professor, clinical coordinator, and student health coordinator in the physician assistant program, is retiring after 20 years. She graduated from the PA program at Kettering College in 1996. DAVID VANDENBURGH, professor and chair of humanities and social sciences since 2007, retired. He also served as the Academic Dean in 2014.

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CAMPUS CANDIDS

pacesetter Â· 2018

FEATURED:

SOCIAL MEDIA SNAPSHOTS

PHOTOS BELOW SOCIAL MEDIA SNAPSHOTS » LEFT TO RIGHT: ROW 1: Winter Welcome: To kick off the winter 2018 semester, the Student LIFE team transformed the Kettering College gymnasium into a roller-skating rink. Heater’s Visit: Visit from Dayton Dragons mascot, Heater. Here he is with (from back left), pre-nursing students Laura Capper, Kuda Gwasira, Madison Fielding, and Taylor Wallace. Front left, pre-nursing students Taylor Mastin and Hanna Cook. Aaron Shust: Christian singer and songwriter Aaron Shust performs at Kettering Adventist Church for students, faculty, staff, and the community. Lambda Chi Delta: Lambda Chi Delta, a women’s Bible study group on campus, hosts a Christmas party for all the Kettering College women. OT Dedication: The occupational therapy class of 2020 during their dedication ceremony. ROW 2: Microbiology Project: As one of their final projects, students in microbiology solved microbial “murders” using model crime scenes and mug shots. OT Final Poster Presentation: Occupational therapy students present their doctoral experience and research posters at the end of the semester. The doctoral program was granted full accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) in December 2017; it’s one of 22 ACOTE-accredited entry-level doctoral OT programs in the United States. Health Block Party: Karie McGill ’15 (physician assistant), Taylor Bartram, former assistant chaplain, and pre-nursing student Kuda Gwasira participated in the annual health block party, a West Dayton health and wellness fair hosted by Kettering Health Network, Kettering College, and Kettering Adventist Church. Students gained experience assisting with a variety of health assessment stations. The event also included food, games, and free items. Assembly: At the final campus assembly of the year, President Nate Brandstater and former Undergraduate Academic Dean Josefer Montes face off in the game Know It All, as played on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. Montes took victory in a category sweep, but Brandstater’s suit won the audience.

SOCIAL MEDIA POSTS » Tag us or use #KetteringCollege for a chance to be featured in an upcoming issue!

CAMPUS CANDIDS

Scholarship Banquet: From left, Tiffany Thompson ’11, clinical nurse manager of critical care at Grandview Medical Center and president of the Kettering College Alumni Association, Tom Thompson, scholarship donor, Nate Brandstater, president of Kettering College, and his wife, Ronda Brandstater, vice president of patient care services, attend the Kettering Medical Center Foundation student scholarship banquet.

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